Sloped-top protective hood for outdoor electrical outlets

ABSTRACT

A protective hood for outdoor electrical outlets or receptacles has an angled top surface, two side panels, and an angled bottom surface having an aperture. In one variant of the protective hood, the aperture in is configured to receive power cords for connection to an electrical outlet over which the protective hood has been mounted, such as an existing electrical outlet installed on a building wall or a power pedestal. In another variant of the protective hood, the aperture in the angled bottom surface is configured to allow an electrical outlet to be installed directly therein, but with the protective hood still being mountable over an electrical outlet on a building wall or power pedestal instead of having an electrical outlet installed in the aperture.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to outdoor electrical outlets orreceptacles and more particularly to protective apparatus for protectingthe outlets from a wide range of weather conditions. The disclosurefurther relates to power pedestals, and to electrical outlets providedon power pedestals.

BACKGROUND

Conventional outdoor receptacles are typically protected by flip coversthat are positioned over individual receptacles or outlets, or by outletcovers with hinged doors that lift to provide access to the outlets.Such flip covers may include gaskets for weather sealing, typicallyeither on the covers themselves, or around the perimeter of the baseframe against which the flip cover will rest.

While generally functional during fair weather, prior art protectivedevices for outdoor electrical outlets or receptacles suffer from anumber of limitations. For example, in temperatures at or belowfreezing, the flip covers are often sealed by ice against the frame suchthat the flip covers cannot be lifted to access the outlet. Even if theflip covers can be lifted to plug into an outlet, ice and snow mayaccumulate while the flip cover is lifted, exposing a significant areaof the electrical outlet to accumulation of ice and snow. This mayprevent the flip cover from closing completely, as the ice and snow mayprevent clean contact between the flip cover and the base frame.Furthermore, the flip cover itself may be frozen in the open position,making it difficult or impossible to close.

In addition, over time, the weather sealing gasket on or around the flipcover may deteriorate, and no longer keep out moisture from theelectrical outlet, possibly allowing moisture to seep into theelectrical outlet and potentially causing an electrical safety problem.While use of GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) receptacles mayhelp avoid serious electrical shocks, the electrical outlet maynevertheless become damaged from the moisture, and have to be replacedat significant cost.

Power pedestals are often used to provide outlets or receptacles foraccessing electricity outdoors, and are commonly used in applicationssuch as outdoor parking lots or driveways to recharge electric vehiclesor to power a block heater, for example. In such outdoor applications,power pedestals are often positioned in locations in which vehicles maycome into accidental contact with the power pedestals. Even a minorcollision may result in major damage to power pedestals, resulting insufficient damage requiring replacement of the housing, or the entireunit.

As well, power pedestals are often subjected to adverse weather, andmoisture trapped within or around the pedestals may damage them andcause them to fail or become unsightly prematurely.

Therefore, what is needed are improved designs for the protection ofoutdoor electrical outlets or receptacles and power pedestals thataddressing at least some of the above limitations in the prior art.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure relates to a protective apparatus for outdoorelectrical outlets or receptacles and power pedestals subjected to awide range of weather conditions including variations in temperature,humidity, and precipitation, and various improvements thereto. Inparticular, electrical outlets provided on power pedestals areconsidered.

In an embodiment, the protective apparatus is an angled hood which hasat least one angled top surface, at least two side panels, and an angledbottom surface having an aperture suitably sized and shaped to receive apower cord from an electrical device.

In a preferred embodiment, the top surface of the hood is angled andextends to a suitable horizontal distance such that when mounted over anelectrical outlet installed in support structure such as a building wallor a power pedestal, the hood will substantially cover and protect theelectrical outlet. It will be appreciated, however, that the angle ofthe top surface of the hood, and the distance of the hood from the wallor power pedestal may be varied within any suitable range.

In another embodiment, the top surface of the hood may extend to asuitable horizontal distance such that the electrical outlet beingcovered is suitably protected from moisture, including rain and snowthat may be directed towards the outlet at an angle. Thus, theelectrical outlet is suitably protected even if access to the electricaloutlet always remains open through the aperture in the angled bottomsurface.

By adjusting the angle of the top surface of the hood, how far the hoodextends horizontally, and the size of the aperture in the angled bottomsurface, the hood may be adjusted for virtually any type and size ofelectrical outlet requiring protection.

In another aspect, the protective hood may be installed over electricaloutlets or receptacles provided on a power pedestal. The power pedestalmay be installed in outdoor areas subject to a wide range of weatherconditions including moisture in the form of rain or snow, for example.

In an embodiment, the power pedestal may comprise a mounting plateincluding a box to mount various types of outlets or receptaclestherein. The mounting plate may be configured to receive various typesof standard electrical outlets, and may be mounted in a vertical orhorizontal orientation depending on the mounting configuration. Aprotective hood may be mounted over each outlet or receptacle using anumber of different mounting means including use of fasteners,adhesives, or mechanical engagement. Preferably, the protective hoodsare removable such that the outlet may be serviced or the protectivehoods may be replaced easily if damaged.

In an embodiment, when a plurality of protective hoods are mountedvertically, each of the protective hoods may optionally be installed inan overlapping configuration such that the top edge of a protective hoodis covered by a bottom edge of a protective hood installed above. Theuppermost protective hood may have its top edge covered by a pedestallid, which at least partially overhangs the top of the pedestal on eachside. Advantageously, moisture is directed away from all of the outlets,and each pedestal above may also protect the pedestal below.

In another embodiment, each protective hood is configured such that theaperture provided on the angled bottom surface includes a flange or lipextending outwardly to direct moisture around the aperture rather thandripping from its edge. Correspondingly, a flange or lip extendinginwardly along the bottom edge of the aperture may also help directmoisture away from the edges of the aperture.

In another embodiment, each pedestal may be mounted to a pedestal basethat is configured to provide sufficient strength to support thepedestal structure including all mounted hardware, but which pedestalbase also includes stress-relief means whereby the pedestal will breakaway either partially or completely from the base if the pedestal isaccidentally struck, for example by a motor vehicle or trailer that isbacking up in a driveway, parking lot, or RV camp site at which thepower pedestal is installed. The stress-relief means is preferablydesigned and configured such that when a lateral force is applied to thepedestal (e.g., by vehicular impact), the pedestal will break awayeither partially or completely from the pedestal base before thepedestal or any part of it experiences structural overload due to theapplied lateral force. Although localized or overall structural failureof the pedestal cannot be prevented in all possible circumstances (dueto uncertainty as to the magnitude of any lateral force that might beapplied to the pedestal), in common pedestal impact scenarios thestress-relief means will prevent significant deformation or other damageto the pedestal after a vehicular impact, such that the pedestal can bereadily returned to service by replacing the damaged original pedestalbase with a new one.

Protective hoods in accordance with the present disclosure also may beconfigured to be deformable, such that the protective hoods can at leastpartially absorb vehicular impact, and can be readily replaced ifdamaged.

In another embodiment, the aperture in the protective hood is suitablylarge to provide sufficient ventilation for the one or more outletscovered by the protective hood. This allows the pedestal to dry afterheavy precipitation, without trapping moisture in any part of theprotective hood.

In another embodiment, a slight gap is provided between the powerpedestal and the pedestal base to improve ventilation to the pedestalcabinet (i.e., interior of the pedestal), and to prevent the elongate ofthe pedestal body from collecting moisture at its base around the bottomof the power pedestal.

In another embodiment, the pedestal itself may include a ventilationgrill which prevents moisture from entering the pedestal but at the sametime allows air to circulate within the pedestal cabinet. Theventilation grill may be provided on two or more sides of the pedestalin order to promote airflow through the pedestal cabinet in order tocontrol moisture.

In one particular aspect, the present disclosure teaches a powerpedestal assembly comprising a pedestal body having an upper end and alower end; a pedestal base adapted for mounting to a support element,and for connection to the lower end of the pedestal body; andstress-relief means associated with the connection of the pedestal bodyto the pedestal base, such that when a lateral force is applied to thepedestal body, the pedestal body will break away at least partially fromthe pedestal base before the pedestal body experiences structuraloverload.

In one embodiment of the power pedestal assembly, the pedestal bodycomprises a square tube; and the pedestal base comprises a centralplate, a rear flange, two opposing side flanges, and a front flange,wherein said rear, side, and front flanges project vertically upwardfrom the central plate and are configured to fit within the lower end ofthe pedestal body. The lower end of the pedestal body is mounted overthe rear, side, and front flanges of the pedestal base, and is connectedto one or more of said flanges by one or more fasteners. In suchembodiments, the stress-relief means may alternatively be provided:

-   -   by configuring the flanges and the fasteners such that in the        event of a shearing force being induced in the plane of the        interface between a selected one of the flanges and the pedestal        body, at least one of the one or more fasteners connecting the        pedestal body to the selected flange will shear off before the        selected flange experiences structural overload; or    -   by configuring the flanges and the fasteners such that in the        event of a shearing force being induced in the plane of the        interface between a selected one of the flanges and the pedestal        body, the selected flange will experience structural overload        before the one or more fasteners connecting the pedestal body to        the selected flange experience structural overload, in which        case the structural overload experienced by the selected flange        may be in the form localized tearing of the flange in the        vicinity of the one or more fasteners, or in the form of tensile        failure of the selected flange. In a variant embodiment, the        selected flange may be is formed with a cut-out section such        that the selected flange defines one or more sub-flanges        adjacent to the cut-out section, and wherein the tensile failure        of the selected flange occurs in one or more of the one or more        sub-flanges.

Optionally, at least one of the rear, side, and front flanges may beprovided with a ground wire termination point to facilitate grounding ofthe pedestal body at a location elevated above the central plate of thepedestal base.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanyingFigures, in which numerical references denote like parts, and in which:

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a protective hood in accordance withan illustrative embodiment.

FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a protective hood and extended basein accordance with another illustrative embodiment.

FIGS. 3A and 3B show schematic plan views of a protective hood inaccordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 3C shows a schematic plan view of a flat sheet which may be foldedinto the protective hood of FIGS. 3A and 3B.

FIGS. 4A and 4B show schematic plan views of a protective hood inaccordance with another embodiment.

FIG. 4C shows a schematic plan view of a flat sheet which may be foldedinto the protective hood of FIGS. 4A and 4B.

FIGS. 5A and 5B show schematic plan views of a protective hood inaccordance with another embodiment.

FIGS. 6A-6H, 7A-7G, 8A-8I, 9A-9I, and 10A-10I show different sizes andconfigurations of cut-out back plates in accordance with variousembodiments.

FIGS. 11A to 11C show illustrative horizontal, vertical, and combinedhorizontal and vertical device plates configured to be mounted tovarious cut-out back plates to receive standard electrical outlet boxes.

FIGS. 12A-12E show various illustrative embodiments in which a pluralityof device plates are arranged vertically.

FIGS. 13A and 13B show illustrative horizontal and vertical cut-out backplates for supporting multiple protective hoods in accordance withillustrative embodiments.

FIGS. 14A to 14C show an illustrative power pedestal in accordance withan embodiment.

FIGS. 15A to 15D show an alternative embodiment of a power pedestal inaccordance with another embodiment.

FIGS. 16A and 16B show alternative embodiments of power pedestals inaccordance with another embodiment.

FIGS. 17A and 17B show another illustrative power pedestal in accordancewith yet another embodiment.

FIGS. 18A to 18C show illustrative examples of power pedestal terminalassemblies in accordance with various embodiments.

FIGS. 19A and 19B show additional illustrative examples of powerpedestal terminal assemblies in accordance with various embodiments.

FIGS. 20A to 20D show another illustrative power pedestal in accordancewith still another embodiment.

FIGS. 21A-21C, 22A-22C, 23A-23C, 24A-24C, 25A-25D, 26A-26D, and 27A-27Cshow isometric views and corresponding plan views of various pedestaldesigns in accordance with an embodiment.

FIGS. 28A to 28C illustrate an alternative embodiment of a pedestal basein accordance with the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure relates to a protective device for outdoorelectrical outlets or receptacles, whether provided on outdoor walls oron power pedestals, and subjected to a wide range of weather conditionsincluding variations in temperature, humidity, and precipitation.

In a first aspect, there is provided a protective device for anelectrical outlet comprising a protective hood with at least one angledtop surface, at least two side panels, and an angled bottom surfacehaving an aperture suitably sized and shaped to receive a power cordfrom an electrical device. The aperture may also be suitably large toallow sufficient access to a person handling the electrical plug toinsert or remove the plug from the outlet.

In a preferred embodiment, the top surface of the hood is angled, andextends to a suitable horizontal distance from the wall such that thehood substantially covers and protects the electrical outlet beingcovered. It will be appreciated, however, that the angle of the topsurface of the hood, and the distance of the hood from the wall may bevaried within any suitable range.

The top surface of the hood may extend to a suitable horizontal distancesuch the electrical outlet being covered is suitably protected frommoisture, including rain and snow that may be directed towards theoutlet at an angle. Thus, the electrical outlet is suitably protectedeven if access to the electrical outlet always remains open through theaperture in the angled bottom surface.

By adjusting the angle of the top surface of the hood, how far the hoodextends horizontally, and the size of the aperture in the angled bottomsurface, the hood may be adjusted for virtually any type and size ofelectrical outlet requiring protection.

The protective hood may be installed over electrical outlets orreceptacles provided on a power pedestal. The power pedestals may begenerally shaped as towers of different heights depending on the numberof electrical outlets provided on one or more sides of the tower.

In an embodiment, the power pedestals may comprise mounting plateincluding a box to mount various types of outlets or receptaclestherein. The mounting plate may be configured to receive various typesof standard electrical outlets, and may be mounted in a vertical orhorizontal orientation depending on the mounting configuration. Aprotective hood may be mounted over each outlet or receptacle using anumber of different mounting means including use of fasteners,adhesives, or mechanical engagement.

Preferably, the protective hoods are removable such that the outlet maybe serviced or the protective hoods may be replaced easily if damaged.

In an embodiment, when a plurality of protective hoods are mountedvertically, each of the protective hoods may optionally be installed inan overlapping configuration such that the top edge of a protective hoodis covered by a bottom edge or skirt of a protective hood installedabove. The uppermost protective hood may have its top edge covered by apedestal lid, which at least partially overhangs the top of the pedestalon each side.

In another embodiment, a plurality of protective hoods may be joined andformed as an integral piece to cover multiple outlets. This may allowmultiple protective hoods to be installed or removed together such thatmultiple outlets may be accessed for service more easily.

In another embodiment, each protective hood is configured such that theaperture provided on the angled bottom surface includes a flange or lipextending outwardly to direct moisture around the aperture rather thandripping from its edge. Correspondingly, a flange or lip extendinginwardly along the bottom edge of the aperture may also help directmoisture away from the edges of the aperture.

In another embodiment, the aperture in the protective hood is suitablylarge to provide sufficient ventilation for the one or more outletscovered by the protective hood. This allows the pedestal to dry afterheavy precipitation, without trapping moisture in any part of theprotective hood.

In another embodiment, the pedestal itself may include a ventilationgrill which prevents moisture from entering the pedestal but at the sametime allows air to circulate within the pedestal cabinet. Theventilation grill may be provided on two or more sides of the pedestalin order to promote airflow through the pedestal cabinet in ordercontrol moisture.

In another embodiment, each pedestal may be mounted to a pedestal basethat is configured to provide sufficient strength to support thepedestal structure including all mounted hardware, but which pedestalbase also includes one or more built in stress-relief features such thatthe pedestal will break away either partially or completely from thebase if the pedestal is accidentally struck, for example by a motorvehicle or trailer that is backing up in a driveway, parking lot, or RVcamp site at which the power pedestal is installed. In this embodiment,the protective hoods may also be configured to be deformable, such thatthe protective hoods can at least partially absorb the impact of themotor vehicle or trailer, and can be readily replaced with another ifdamaged.

In this respect, before explaining at least one embodiment of thevarious improvements in more detail, it is to be understood that thepresent system and method is not limited in its application to thedetails of construction and to the arrangements of the components setforth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. Thepresent system and method are capable of other embodiments and of beingpracticed and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understoodthat the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purposeof description and should not be regarded as limiting.

Illustrative embodiments in accordance with the present disclosure willnow be described with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a protective hood 100 in accordance withan illustrative embodiment. As shown, hood 100 includes an angled topsurface 102, an angled bottom surface 104, and two side panels 106adjoined to the top surface 102 and abutting bottom surface 104 alongits edges. Suitable weather sealing may be provided along the length ofbottom surface 104 to prevent moisture from penetrating through anygaps. Alternatively, with hood 100 formed from a suitable metal, sidepanel 106 may be welded to the bottom surface to form a complete,weatherproof seal. Bottom surface 104 includes an aperture 108 suitablyshaped and sized to receive an electrical power cord and plug from anelectrical appliance or electrical device. Bottom surface 104 is shownhaving fastener holes 112 adjacent to aperture 108.

In an embodiment, the angle A formed between angled top surface 102 andeach bottom surface 104 (as further discussed below with reference toFIGS. 3C and 4C) is preferably between about 45 degrees and 90 degrees,with each side panel 106 appropriately proportioned to abut bottomsurface 104 along its edges.

For angle A, it has been found that a range of angles between about 45degrees and about 50 degrees minimizes the collection of rain or snow onthe top surface, allowing virtually all moisture on angled top surface102 to be directed away from the protected electrical outlet.

In the illustrative embodiment shown in FIG. 1, angled top surface 102is angled at about 45 degrees from horizontal, and extends horizontallyuntil it is halfway down hood 100. In this example, angled bottomsurface 104 is also angled at about 45 degrees from horizontal in theopposite direction, such that angled top surface 102 and angled bottomsurface 104 form a right angle with respect to each other, such thatangle A is 90 degrees. Side panel 106 therefore forms a right-angletriangle.

Still referring to FIG. 1, mounting holes 110 may be used to securelymount hood 100 onto a vertical surface, such as a wall, or the surfaceof a panel. Suitable weather sealing may be provided between hood 100and the wall or panel surface, such that moisture is prevented fromentering any gaps at the top or the sides of hood 100. For example, arubber gasket, foam or silicone caulking may be used to form aweatherproof seal along the top of hood 100.

In another embodiment, aperture 108 in the bottom surface 104 issuitably shaped and sized to receive various devices. As bottom surface104 is angled (in this example at 45 degrees from horizontal), aperture108 must accommodate various devices inserted at an angle relative tobottom surface 104.

In another embodiment, aperture 108 in bottom surface 104 is suitablyshaped and sized to receive various cut-out plates, as detailed furtherbelow with reference to FIGS. 11A to 11C.

In another embodiment, in order to provide adequate drainage, hood 100may include suitably sized drainage holes in each bottom surface 104,and a non-gasketed bottom lip to allow moisture to drain below hood 100.

FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a protective hood 100 and extendedbase 200 in accordance with another illustrative embodiment. In thiscase, extended base 200 provides a greater surface area for mountinghood 100 against a vertical surface. Extended base 200 further providesadditional means by which to weather seal all sides of hood 100 againstthe vertical mounting surface. It will be appreciated that extended base200 may be any suitable shape and width to perform the describedfunction, and may include additional features to simplify mounting hood100 onto a vertical mounting surface.

FIGS. 3A and 3B show are schematic side and front views, respectively,of a protective hood 100 in accordance with an embodiment. As shown inthe front view in FIG. 3B, aperture 108 is suitably shaped and sized toreceive one or more electrical cords and plugs to access one or moreelectrical outlets protected by hood 100. The side view in FIG. 3A showsthat side panels 106 form a triangle with a sharper angle formed betweenits top and bottom edges (for example, about 54 degrees), rather than 90degrees as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.

FIG. 3C shows a schematic plan view of a flat sheet which may be foldedinto the protective hood of FIGS. 3A and 3B by folding along the dottedfold lines. With side panels 106 shown as wings attached to top surface102, the top of hood 100 provides complete protection against moisturealong the fold line between top surface 102 and side panels 106. In thisexample, bottom surface 104 is approximately the same size as topsurface 102, and abuts side panels 106 along their free edges. As notedabove, this edge can be weather-sealed with a suitable weather-sealingmaterial, or alternatively this edge may be welded, or otherwise joinedto provide a seal. However, in another embodiment, this edge may alsoprovide a slight gap (e.g., 0.02 inch) in order to allow venting into orout of hood 100. As discussed earlier, the angle A formed between angledtop surface 102 and each bottom surface 104 is preferably between about45 degrees and 90 degrees, with each side panel 106 appropriatelyproportioned to abut bottom surface 104 along its edges. In thisexample, the angle B formed between bottom surface 104 and vertical isshown to be 63 degrees.

FIGS. 4A and 4B show schematic plan views of a protective hood inaccordance with another embodiment. While this embodiment is similar tothe one shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, aperture 108 is significantlydifferent to accommodate another type of electrical outlet, and thecorresponding electrical cords and plugs. As will be appreciated,virtually any type of electrical outlet may be accommodated by asuitably shaped and sized aperture 108.

FIG. 4C shows a schematic plan view of a flat sheet which may be foldedinto the protective hood of FIGS. 4A and 4B by folding along the dottedfold lines. Once again, the angle A formed between angled top surface102 and each bottom surface 104 once hood 100 is folded is shown to be63 degrees (by way of example).

FIGS. 5A and 5B show a schematic plan view of a protective hood inaccordance with another embodiment, in which the mounting holes andslots are repositioned to be mountable to different mounting holesprovided on a wall or on a power pedestal.

Advantageously, protective hood 100 in accordance with the presentdisclosure may be readily fitted over existing outdoor electricaloutlets, and may be sized to be compatible with any size of electricalbox. This includes conventional outdoor household electrical outletswith flush wall-mount receptacle boxes, or electrical outlets with castoutlet boxes provided on outdoor pedestals or charging stations forelectrical vehicles, for example. Hood 100 may be mounted by simplyremoving the existing electrical outlet, screw-mounting an angleadapter, and reinstalling the electrical outlet into position.

In an illustrative embodiment, protective hood 100 may be made frommachine-formed galvanized steel. Once formed into shape, protective hood100 may be painted using a suitable powder coat or paint to protect thesurface from rusting and damage. Alternatively, rather than using steel,an insulative formable or moldable material may also be used, such asfibreglass, or injection-molded plastic.

FIGS. 6A-6H, 7A-7G, 8A-8I, 9A-9I, and 10A-10I show different sizes andconfigurations of cut-out back plates in accordance with variousembodiments. As will be appreciated, the cut-out plates may beconfigured to be suitable for virtually any shape, size, orconfiguration of devices or power cords that may be accepted.

FIGS. 11A to 11C show illustrative horizontal, vertical, and combinedhorizontal and vertical device plates configured to be mounted tovarious cut-out back plates to receive standard electrical outlet boxes.

FIGS. 12A-12E show various embodiments of a device back plate having adifferent number of outlets.

FIGS. 13A and 13B show horizontal and vertical back plates 600A and600B, respectively, for supporting multiple protective hoods inaccordance with illustrative embodiments. As shown, back plates 1300A,1300B may support multiple protective hoods 100 arranged horizontally orvertically, allowing multiple receptacle connection points forapplications requiring a large number of receptacles.

FIGS. 14A to 14C show an illustrative power pedestal 1400A in accordancewith an embodiment. Preferably, power pedestal 1400A complies withindustry standards such as an EEMAC (Electrical and ElectronicManufacturing Association of Canada)/NEMA (National ElectricalManufactures Association) Type 3R, and CSA (Canadian StandardsAssociation), or similar electrical standards which may apply in otherjurisdictions.

As shown in FIGS. 14A to 14C, an illustrative power pedestal 1400Aincludes a generally vertically-elongate body 1410, mounted to a base bymeans of a plurality of fasteners 1412. Elongate body 1410 may be madefrom a durable, long-lasting corrosion-resistant material, such asgalvanized metal construction, to prevent rusting and assure along-lasting quality finish. Various powder coat and paint colors may beused to prepare elongate body 1410 for outdoor applications.

In a preferred embodiment, the power pedestal has a generally smoothsurface, with no visible mounting bolts or a flanged base which may trapmoisture and may be prone to rust. One or more of the front, back, orside panels of elongate body 1410 may be removable to provide access tothe panel.

As shown, a pedestal lid 1420 extends over all sides of elongate body1410. Lid 1420 is maintained in place by a fastener 1422, and may beformed from a soft material with smooth edges to prevent cuts fromscraping against edges or corners. The top surface of lid 1420 may alsobe suitably sloped by raising the center and to help drain moistureaway.

In another embodiment, one or more receptacles 1430 are provided on atleast one side of elongate body 1410, for example in a standard NEMA5-15R configuration. However, it will be appreciated that various typesof receptacles may be made available, including GFCI type receptacles toprevent shocks if the receptacles are inadvertently exposed to moisture.Furthermore, a suitable light source and photo-cell to turn on the lightsource at dusk may be provided near the receptacles to show theirlocation and make insertion of power cords easier.

Each receptacle 1430 may be covered by a suitable self-closing cover,made of thermoplastic for example. One or more removable front accesscovers may be used to cover an opening on one of the sides of the powerpedestal 1400A.

FIG. 14B illustrates an embodiment of an interchangeable (i.e.,replaceable) pedestal base 1400B, having a frame 1440 with an opening,and a plurality of apertures 1442 for fastening pedestal base 1400B,1400C. In an embodiment, pedestal base 1400B may also havevertically-extending flanges on each side, to which thevertically-elongate body 1410 may be attached by means of a plurality offasteners 1412, such as self-tapping ⅜″ mounting fasteners or galvanizedscrews, for example.

In an embodiment, pedestal base 1400B, 1400C may be constructed fromgalvanized steel, and mounted to elongate body 1410 by suitablegalvanized screws. Preferably, elongate body 1410 is mounted in base1400B, 1400C such that a gap 1450 is provided between elongate body 1410and the ground or other supporting element (such as but not limited to apile cap or a concrete footing). Gap 1450 significantly improvesventilation to the cabinet, and prevents elongate body 1410 fromcollecting moisture at its base around the bottom of the power pedestal.

Still referring to FIGS. 14A-14C, in an embodiment, the interchangeablepedestal base and/or the pedestal mounting hardware includes at leastone stress-relief point, such that the power pedestal can break awayeither partially or completely from the interchangeable pedestal base ifthe power pedestal is accidentally struck, for example by a motorvehicle or trailer that is backing up in a driveway, parking lot, or RVcamp site at which the power pedestal is installed.

In an embodiment, the stress-relief feature may be one or more weakenedsections of the interchangeable pedestal base designed to allow thepower pedestal to break away either partially or completely from thebase with minimal damage to the power pedestal. For example, a weakenedsection may be formed by utilizing a material with a lower threshold fordeformation, such as a thinner sheet metal, or a plastic material.Alternatively, a partial cut-out may be formed into a section of thepedestal base to form a designed point of failure.

This breakaway feature sacrifices a relatively low-cost part, such asthe interchangeable pedestal base or the mounting hardware, to minimizedamage on the power pedestal with its more costly parts and components.

In a similar manner, protective hoods mounted on the power pedestal mayalso be configured to be deformable, such that the protective hoods canat least partially absorb the impact of the motor vehicle or trailer,and can be readily replaced with a replacement hood if damaged. On thesides of the power pedestal that do not have protective hoods mounted, asacrificial plate or resilient bumper guard may be provided to protectthe power pedestal from damage.

In another embodiment, the power pedestal has a profile whereby its baseis not extended, but rather the same size as the body all the way to thebase. The lack of any extending flanges also helps avoid collection ofmoisture near the base to prevent corrosion.

The power pedestal is also suitably sized such that one or morereceptacles may be provided at a suitable height for access. The one ormore receptacles may be covered by a suitable receptacle cover toprotect the receptacle from moisture. Each receptacle may be separatelycovered.

Referring to FIGS. 15A to 15D, shown is another illustrative powerpedestal 1500A which provides a significantly shortened version ofelongate body 1510, mounted to a base by means of a plurality offasteners 1512. Power pedestal 1500A may be adapted to be EEMAC/NEMAType 3R compliant for outdoor use.

As shown in FIG. 15D, an optional hinged hood may be mounted over theoutlet provided on the power pedestal.

FIGS. 15B and 15C show a base 1500B having an opening for feeds, and aplurality of apertures for fastening base 1500B to a surface. A groundscrew may be provided to provide a point of contact for one or moreground wires which may have a direct electrical connection to earth oranother ground.

FIG. 15D shows an alternative embodiment in which an optional hingedhood 1500D is provided to replace the standard hood 120 of FIG. 2A andto provide additional protection from precipitation, and to providecover while the receptacle is in use. The hinged hood may be adapted tomeet specified standards, such as CEC (Canadian Electric Code) Rule#26-702, for example.

Now referring to FIGS. 16A and 16B, shown is another illustrativeembodiment of power pedestals having an electrical outlet, over which aprotective hood may be mounted, such as the protective hood of FIG. 1.Each power pedestal 1600A, 1600B includes a circuit breaker 1610 whichmay provide additional protection from circuit overloads to improvesafety of power pedestals 1600A, 1600B. By way of example, the circuitbreakers may be 10 kAIC (kilo Amp Interrupting Capacity)molded-case-type breakers, and may be positioned just under theremovable hoods to provide for easy local resetting capability, withouthaving to open an entire panel. However, if access to the cabinet isnecessary, one or more of the front, back, or side panels of pedestals1600A, 1600B may be removed.

FIGS. 17A and 17B show another illustrative embodiment of a powerpedestal 1700A and a corresponding base 1700B having a profile suitablefor mounting the body of power pedestal 1700A. In this embodiment, powerpedestal 1700A is shaped and sized to be mounted on top of a tubularrail that may be used, for example, in a parking lot. By way of example,these tubular rails may be 1M series HSS 5″×5″ rails.

In this embodiment, base 1700B may have a feed-through aperture whichallows electrical wires to be fed through the tubular rail and throughbase 1700B of power pedestal 1700A.

FIGS. 18A to 18C, 19A, and 19B show various configurations for differenttypes of wire-binding plates, including 1-phase, 3-wire styles shown inFIGS. 18A and 5B, and 3-phase, 4-wire styles shown in FIGS. 18C and 19A.FIG. 19B shows conductors attached with excess loops at the point oftermination to allow for some settling. Thus, different wire-bindingplate configurations may accommodate different mounting in differentsizes of power pedestals, depending on requirements.

Now referring to FIGS. 20A to 20C, shown is another illustrativeembodiment of a power pedestal 2000A. As shown in FIG. 20B, an optionaldouble-sided hood 2000B may be installed which has hinged panels 2010,2012 on either side providing access to different types of receptacles.

As shown in FIG. 20A, optional molded-case circuit breakers (MCCB) ratedat 10 kAIC may be fed through 20-gauge copper or aluminum ring terminalsattached to a ground bar to allow code compliance for feeder circuitsover 60 amps.

As will be understood, the above illustrative embodiments may beimplemented in various configurations. FIGS. 21A-21C, 22A-22C, 23A-23C,24A-24C, 25A-25D, 26A-26D, and 27A-27C illustrate pedestal designs inaccordance with various further embodiments.

FIG. 21A shows a basic configuration in which the protective hood 100 ismounted to an electrical box 2100.

FIGS. 22A-22C show another configuration in which the protective hood100 is mounted to an electrical box 2200.

FIGS. 23A-23C show an alternative configuration in which two protectivehoods 100 are mounted to the same side of a pedestal 2300.

FIGS. 24A-24C show another configuration in which protective hoods 100are mounted on opposite sides of an electrical box 2400.

FIGS. 25A-25D show another configuration in which a protective hood 100is mounted over an outlet provided near the top of a power pedestal2500. In this configuration, a pedestal lid is provided with anoverhang, which partially covers the top edge of the protective hood. Asillustrated in FIGS. 25A-25D, pedestal 2500 has an interchangeable(i.e., replaceable) pedestal base 2510 fastened to pedestal 2500 withfasteners 2520. FIG. 25B illustrates the optional provision of a groundwire termination point 2860 in an upstanding flange of pedestal base2510 (generally as described in greater detail below in the context ofFIGS. 28A and 28C).

FIGS. 26A-26D illustrate a further configuration in which a protectivehood 100 is mounted to a power pedestal 2600 having an interchangeable(i.e., replaceable) pedestal base 2510 fastened to pedestal 2600 withfasteners 2520. FIG. 26D is a cross-sectional plan view illustratinginterchangeable pedestal base 2510 having anchor bolt holes 2530 tofacilitate mounting of pedestal 2600 over anchor bolts projecting from aconcrete foundation (not shown).

FIGS. 27A-27C illustrate a yet further configuration in which aprotective hood 100 is mounted to a power pedestal 2700 having aninterchangeable (i.e., replaceable) pedestal base 2510 fastened topedestal 2600 with fasteners 2520.

FIGS. 28A-28C illustrate an alternative embodiment 2800 of a pedestalbase particularly adapted to facilitate at least partial breakaway of apower pedestal from pedestal base 2800 in response to vehicular impactor other lateral force applied to the pedestal. Base 2800 has a centralplate 2805 which has an opening 2850 for passage of electrical cables.Central plate 2805 has a desired number of anchor bolt holes 2842 forreceiving anchor bolts 2844 for anchoring base 2800 to a concretefoundation or other support element 2870. A rear flange 2810, twoopposing side flanges 2820, and a front flange 2830 project verticallyfrom corresponding edges of central plate 2805, as best understood withreference to FIG. 28C. The lateral distances between rear flange 2810and front flange 2830 and between side flanges 2820 are preferablyselected for a reasonably close fit (but not necessarily a snug fit)within a power pedestal such as pedestal 1400A shown in broken outlinein FIG. 28C.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 28A-28C, flanges 2810, 2820, and 2830are provided with a selected number of fastener holes 2812 in selectedlocations, for receiving fasteners 1412 for connecting power pedestal1400A to pedestal base 2800, as schematically illustrated in FIG. 28C.The locations of fastener holes 2812 shown in FIGS. 28A and 28C areexemplary only; suitable quantities and locations for fastener holes2812 may vary according to design requirements or preferences forspecific applications.

When pedestal 1400A is thus mounted to base 2800, an external lateralforce F_(L) applied to pedestal 1400A in the direction shown in FIG. 28Cwill be laterally reacted by anchor bolts 2844. However, force F_(L)will also induce a counterclockwise overturning moment about a point ofrotation X along a lower edge 2810L of rear flange 2810. In accordancewith fundamental structural engineering principles, this moment willinduce shear forces F_(S) acting vertically along the interfaces betweenfront flange 2830 and side flanges 2820 and the corresponding sidewalls1415 of pedestal 1400A. These shear forces will be resisted by fasteners1412. However, the magnitude of the shear force induced in any givenfastener 1412 will depend upon the total number of fasteners provided ineach flange 2820 or 2830, as well as the lateral distance between agiven fastener 1412 and from point of rotation X, and these shear forcescan be readily estimated for a given lateral load F_(L) using knownmethods of structural analysis.

Accordingly, stress-relief means may be provided in pedestal base 2800by selecting the type, quantity, and locations of fasteners 1412 suchthat they will shear off before they can rupture or tear through theflanges in which they are installed. More specifically, with referenceto the lateral loading scenario depicted in FIG. 28C, the fasteners 1412in front flange 2830 should shear off before any of the fasteners 1412in the other flanges. After the fasteners 1412 in front flange 2830 havesheared off, the shear loads that they were carrying will be transferredto the fasteners 1412 in side flanges 2820, which in turn may shear off(depending again on how many fasteners 1412 are provided in side flanges2820).

However, the fasteners 1412 in rear flange 2810 will experience littleif any induced shear loading given that they are essentially directlyabove point of rotation X with respect to the counter-clockwiseoverturning moment induced by lateral force F_(L). Accordingly, theultimate result of the application of lateral force F_(L) to pedestal1400A will typically be for rear flange 2810 to bend downward as theimpacted pedestal 1400A rotates, but with pedestal base 2800 remainingat least partially connected to pedestal 1400A because the fasteners1412 in rear flange 2810 will not have sheared off. This continuedconnection of pedestal 1400A to pedestal base 2800 will be beneficialbecause it will tend to preserve the continuity and integrity ofelectrical conductors installed in pedestal 1400A despite the vehicularimpact, thus reducing or eliminating the risk of electrical shock orelectrocution, and thereby enhancing safety.

Alternatively, shear-relief means may be provided for pedestal base 2800by selecting the type, quantity, and locations of fasteners 1412, aswell as the material and thicknesses of flanges 2810, 2820, and 2830,such that the fasteners 1412 will tear through the flanges before theycan shear off. In this scenario, the end result will be essentially thesame as for the above-described scenario where there is sequentialshearing failure of fasteners 1412, but the failure mechanism will belocalized structural failure of the flange material rather than shearingof fasteners 1412. In a further alternative scenario, the failuremechanism may be a combination of flange material failure and fastenerfailure.

In the particular embodiment illustrated in FIG. 28A, front flange 2830has a cut-out 2837 such that front flange 2830 defines sub-flange 2835on either side of cut-out 2837. This optional design feature facilitatesa third possible way of providing shear-relief means; i.e., depending onthe number and type of fasteners provided, and the thickness and widthof sub-flanges 2835, the moment induced by lateral force F_(L) couldresult in tensile failure of sub-flanges 2835 before any of thefasteners 1412 in front flange 2830 shear off or cause localized tearingthrough the material of flange 2830.

Although the failure mechanism for alternative stress-relief means hasbeen described by way of example with reference to the specific scenarioof a lateral force F_(L) acting in the direction from front to rear ofpedestal base 2800, the failure mechanism would be essentially the samein scenarios where force F_(L) acts in a different direction.

Pedestal base 2800 optionally may be provided with one or more groundwire termination points 2860 in one or more of flanges 2810, 2820, and2830. As may be appreciated from FIGS. 28A and 28C, this featurefacilitates the grounding of power pedestal 1400A to base 2800 at apoint above the support element 2870 to which base 2800 is anchored.This feature can be beneficial in the above-described vehicular impactscenarios because it preserves the continuity and integrity ofelectrical grounding in spite of resultant displacement of the pedestal,thus reducing or eliminating the risk of electrical shock orelectrocution and thereby enhancing safety.

FIG. 28A illustrates a flat sheet (such as but not limited to galvanizedsteel plate) that may be used to form pedestal base 2800, by folding orbending flanges 2810, 2820, and 2830 relative to central plate 2805along respective bend lines 2811, 2812, and 2813. However, this is byway of non-limiting example only; in variant embodiments, pedestal base2800 could be fabricated from separate plates elements joined together(such as by welding), or molded in final form from a synthetic materialsuch as a plastic. Such alternative fabrication methods would enablecentral plate 2805 and flanges 2810, 2820, and 2830 to have differentthicknesses or to be made from different materials. This may beadvantageous for purposes of providing base 2800 with stress-reliefmeans to prevent or minimize damage to power pedestal 1400A in responseto vehicular impact or other external loading. For example, it may beadvantageous for central plate 2805 to be thicker than flanges 2810,2820, and 2830 in embodiments for which it is desirable for base 2800 toremain anchored to support element 2870 after flanges 2810, 2820, and2830 have been deformed in response to vehicular impact.

Thus, in an aspect, there is provided a protective device for an outdoorelectrical outlet, comprising at least one angled top surface, at leasttwo side panels adjoining the top surface, and an angled bottom surfacehaving an aperture.

In an embodiment, the angled top surface is angled downwardly to extendto a sufficient horizontal distance from the wall, such that the angledtop surface substantially covers and protects the electrical outlet fromthe top.

In another embodiment, the angled top surface joins the angled bottomsurface at an apex, and wherein an angle A formed between the angled topsurface and the angled bottom surface is between about 45 degrees and 90degrees.

In another embodiment, the aperture on the angled bottom surface issuitably sized and shaped to receive a power cord from an electricaldevice.

In another embodiment, the two side panels adjoining the top surface arefurther adjoined to edges of the angled bottom surface.

In another embodiment, the protective device is adapted to be installedover electrical outlets or receptacles provided on a power pedestal.

In another embodiment, the protective device is adapted to be deformableand replaceable upon receiving any damage to the protective device.

In another embodiment, the protective device is formed from sheet metalthat is folded to form each section of the protective device.

In another embodiment, the protective device is formed from aninsulative formable or moldable material, such as fibreglass orinjection-molded plastic.

In another embodiment, the bottom end of the protective device isadapted to provide one or more moisture drainage openings to allowmoisture to drain from the protective device.

In another aspect, there is provided a power pedestal adapted to receivea protective device for each electrical outlet provided on the powerpedestal, with the protective device comprising at least one angled topsurface, at least two side panels adjoining the top surface, and anangled bottom surface having an aperture.

In an embodiment, the power pedestal is further adapted to mount aplurality of protective devices over a plurality of electrical outletsarranged vertically or horizontally.

In another embodiment, the power pedestal is further adapted to receivea cut-out back plate for mounting one or more different types ofstandard electrical boxes.

In another embodiment, the power pedestal further comprises aninterchangeable (i.e., replaceable) pedestal base adapted to mount thepower pedestal, and wherein the power pedestal base includes at leastone built-in stress-relief feature adapted to allow the power pedestalto break away either partially or completely from the pedestal base ifan external mechanical stress on the pedestal base exceeds apredetermined breaking point.

In another embodiment, the at least one built-in stress-relief featurecomprises a material with a lower threshold for deformation, or apartial cut-out of a section of the interchangeable pedestal baseforming a designed point of failure.

In another embodiment, the interchangeable pedestal base is adapted tomount the power pedestal to a base with at least a minimum clearance gapsuch that the power pedestal is ventilated from below.

In another embodiment, the power pedestal further comprises one or moreadditional ventilation grills on one or more sides of the power pedestalcabinet.

In another embodiment, the power pedestal further comprises a circuitbreaker to interrupt electrical current to each outlet if a ground faultis detected.

In another embodiment, the angled top surface is angled downwardly toextend to a sufficient horizontal distance from the wall, such that theangled top surface substantially covers and protects the electricaloutlet from the top.

In another embodiment, the angled top surface joins the angled bottomsurface at an apex, and wherein an angle A formed between the angled topsurface and the angled bottom surface is between about 45 degrees and 90degrees.

It will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art that variousmodifications to embodiments in accordance with the present disclosuremay be devised without departing from the present teachings, includingmodifications that may use structures or materials later conceived ordeveloped. It is to be especially understood that the scope of thepresent disclosure and claims should not be limited to or by anyparticular embodiments described, illustrated, and/or claimed herein,but should be given the broadest interpretation consistent with thedisclosure as a whole. It is also to be understood that the substitutionof a variant of a described or claimed element or feature, without anysubstantial resultant change in functionality, will not constitute adeparture from the scope of the disclosure or claims.

In this patent document, any form of the word “comprise” is to beunderstood in its non-limiting sense to mean that any element or featurefollowing such word is included, but elements or features notspecifically mentioned are not excluded. A reference to an element orfeature by the indefinite article “a” does not exclude the possibilitythat more than one of the element or feature is present, unless thecontext clearly requires that there be one and only one such element orfeature. Any use of any form of the terms “connect”, “engage”, “attach”,or any other term describing an interaction between elements is notmeant to limit the interaction to direct interaction between the subjectelements, and may also include indirect interaction between the elementssuch as through secondary or intermediary structure.

Relational or conformational terms such as but not limited to “vertical”or “horizontal” are not intended to denote or require absolutemathematical or geometrical precision. Accordingly, such terms are to beunderstood as denoting or requiring substantial precision only (e.g.,“substantially vertical” or “generally horizontal”) unless the contextclearly requires otherwise. Any use of any form of the term “typical” isto be interpreted in the sense of being representative of common usageor practice, and is not to be interpreted as implying essentiality orinvariability.

What is claimed is:
 1. A protective hood for an outdoor electricaloutlet, said protective hood comprising: (a) a top surface having aninner edge, an outer edge, and opposing side edges extending betweensaid inner and outer edges of the top surface; (b) a bottom surfacehaving an inner edge, an outer edge, and opposing side edges extendingbetween said inner and outer edges of the bottom surface, with the outeredge of the bottom surface being parallel to and adjoining the outeredge of the top surface, and with the top and bottom surfaces beingoriented so as to enclose an angle between about 45 degrees and about 60degrees along the juncture of the outer edges of the top and bottomsurfaces; and (c) two opposing side panels, each extending between thetop and bottom surfaces, proximal to corresponding side edges thereof;wherein: (d) the bottom surface slopes upward and away from the inneredge of the bottom surface, relative to a reference plane extendingbetween the inner edges of the top and bottom surfaces; (e) the bottomsurface has an aperture sized to receive one or more power cords or anelectrical outlet; and (f) the top surface slopes downward and away fromits inner edge, relative to the reference plane.
 2. The protective hoodof claim 1, wherein the reference plane and the bottom surface of theprotective hood enclose an angle of about 63 degrees.
 3. The protectivehood of claim 1, wherein the reference plane and the top surface of theprotective hood enclose an angle of about 63 degrees.
 4. The protectivehood of claim 1, further comprising an extended base connected to theprotective hood along the inner edges of the top and bottom surfaces, tofacilitate mounting of the protective hood to a support structure. 5.The protective hood of claim 1, wherein the protective hood is adaptedfor mounting over one or more electrical outlets installed on a supportstructure.